1970s Omega Speedmaster Mark 4.5 176.0012

One of the more unusual Speedmaster watches from the ‘Mark’-era is definitely this 176.0012. It is very similar to the Mark IV but certainly not a Mark V ST376.0806 “Holy Grail” (except for the movement). It is one of only a few Speedmasters to pair the Speedie design with the Lemania 5100 movement – an engine used in the Speedmaster “Holy Grail” 376.0822.

So, although there is no mentioning of ‘Mark’ on the dial (like the Mark II – Mark V range), it has come to be regarded by collectors as the “Mark 4.5”; an unofficial member of the special “Mark” club.  It is the Speedmaster reference that seems to be a mix between the Mark IV case and Mark V movement.

The Lemania 5100 on which this caliber is based is a ruthlessly bulletproof automatic. The base Lemania has been to space, under the sea, and in the air during wartime.

The standard 176.0012 holds immense value at the current market prices.  This reference was introduced in 1974 and from our research, it appears to have been for approximately 10 years; it appeared in the official Omega catalogue as late is 1985. 

In the words of Hairspring Watches: “. This is a damn good watch the market just doesn’t seem to love. There are a few likely reasons for this. First, generations of design simply fall in and out of fashion over time. This is a design not in vogue. Second, the automatic caliber destroys everything Speedmaster traditionalists hold dear. Both reasons are simple results of deviation from the Speedmaster norms. Those iterations in design that result in breaking with tradition are exactly why I love the Mk4.5 (and all ‘Mark’-series Speedmasters) more than your average bear.”

Condition:

The overall condition of this particular example is excellent with just some very light scratches / nicks to the case.  All components (crown, pushers, glass, dial, hands, endlinks, and bracelet) are original to the watch. The dial and hands are perfect; the lume has developed a lovely honey patina. The movement, with its serial in the correct range, is running strongly for its age and was recently serviced by the previous owner.  The day / date quick-set works as it should.  On the timegrapher it is indicated to be losing just 9 seconds per day with an amplitude of 300. 

Specifications:

Reference: 176.0012

Material: Stainless steel

Dimensions: 42mm diameter 45mm lug to lug; 

Crystal: mineral glass

Lume: Tritium

Caliber: Omega self-winding caliber 1045

Bracelet/Strap: Matching Omega bracelet 1162/1/72.  Fits wrists up to 7.8in

Lug Width: 22mm

Box/Papers: N/A